California’s WNBA teams, the Los Angeles Sparks and Golden State Valkyries, appear to be heading in different directions. While the Sparks, with an 11-14 record, lead the league with a five-game winning streak, the Valkyries (11-13) have suffered six losses in their last eight games.
In addition to their good run, the Sparks get back a key player, while the Valkyries suffer a significant loss.
Cameron Brink, the number 2 pick of the 2024 draft, returns to action this Tuesday against the Aces. The former Stanford star, who missed 15 games due to a knee injury in June 2024, averaged 7.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks before the injury.
The return of Brink comes at an opportune moment, considering the good performance of the Sparks. Players like Kelsey Plum, Dearica Hamby, Azura Stevens, and Rickea Jackson are averaging double digits in scoring, and Julie Allemand has established herself as the starting point guard, with two games of 10 assists in the last two weeks.
On the other hand, the Valkyries have lost their top scorer and rebounder, Kayla Thornton, for the rest of the season due to knee surgery. Thornton was the franchise’s first All-Star.
The good news for Golden State is the addition of French center Iliana Rupert, who joined the team last week after missing the first half of the season due to commitments abroad.
The Sparks seem to have a better chance of making the playoffs compared to the Valkyries, something that wasn’t evident a month ago.
WNBA Ranking
Minnesota Lynx (22-5)
The Lynx defeated Chicago and Las Vegas last week, but their defense was poor in Sunday’s loss to Atlanta (90-86). They will face New York on Wednesday.
New York Liberty (17-8)
The Liberty won their first two games after Jonquel Jones’ return, but they performed inconsistently without Breanna Stewart, who was injured in the game against Los Angeles. They are awaiting the arrival of Emma Meesseman.
Atlanta Dream (15-10)
Atlanta rose in the rankings thanks to its victories in Phoenix and Minnesota. They await the return of Rhyne Howard.
Phoenix Mercury (16-9)
Phoenix lost two out of three games last week, although they had the return of Satou Sabally and Kahleah Copper.
Indiana Fever (14-12)
After their defeat against New York, Indiana won against Las Vegas and Chicago. Kelsey Mitchell has led the team in scoring in the last eight games.
Seattle Storm (16-11)
The Storm had a 2-2 record last week. Skylar Diggins achieved another triple-double.
Los Angeles Sparks (11-14)
The Sparks’ five-game winning streak includes a victory over the defending champion, New York.Rickea Jackson (left) is one of four Sparks players averaging double digits in scoring, with Cameron Brink (right) set to return with more offensive power.
Las Vegas Aces (13-13)
Las Vegas had a .500 week, with wins and losses. Jewell Loyd came off the bench for the first time since joining the team and scored 20 points.
Washington Mystics (12-13)
The Mystics have lost three of their last four games. Pay attention to rookies Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron.
Golden State Valkyries (11-13)
The Valkyries defeated the Wings after Kayla Thornton’s absence was announced, but then suffered a defeat against the Sun.
Dallas Wings (8-19)
The Wings beat Seattle and New York, but lost against Golden State and Las Vegas. Arike Ogunbowale had her best shooting streak in four games.
Chicago Sky (7-18)
Chicago lost last week and extended its losing streak to five games. Angel Reese has missed two games due to a back injury. Ariel Atkins and Hailey Van Lith are also out.
Connecticut Sun (4-21)
The Sun welcomed Marina Mabrey back and secured a victory over Golden State.
